The Ultimate Southwest Loaded Salad

Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 12 minutes

This vibrant, crunchy salad is the ultimate showcase for your meal prep. Featuring chicken marinated in our Citrus Taco Marinade and drizzled with creamy Southwest Ranch, it’s packed with fresh vegetables and bold flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, prepared using the Citrus Taco Marinade
• 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce or spring mix
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 large cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup frozen corn, thawed (or grilled corn off the cob)
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Southwest Ranch Dressing (prepared with CMM Taco and Ranch seasonings)
• Optional toppings: Crushed tortilla chips, lime wedges, or shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Remove the marinated chicken from the Citrus Taco Marinade and cook for 5–7 minutes per side until charred and cooked through (165°F).
2. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips or bite-sized cubes.
3. In a very large bowl, lay down a base of chopped romaine or spring mix.
4. Arrange the cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red onion, black beans, and corn over the greens.
5. Add the sliced warm chicken and the diced avocado to the top of the salad.
6. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and any optional toppings like tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch.
7. Drizzle a generous amount of the Southwest Ranch Dressing over the top just before serving.
8. Toss everything together so every bite is coated in that smoky, creamy dressing.